By Our Correspondent
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has renewed public attention on the continued detention of Anambra native doctor Chidozie Nwangwu, widely known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki. Nwangwu, who is from Oba in Idemili South Local Government Area, has reportedly been held by the Anambra State Government since early February 2025. He is said to be detained along with two other traditional practitioners.
Sowore questioned the basis for their arrest and expressed concern over the length of their detention. He raised the issue of religious freedom and asked whether the practice of traditional religion is being treated as a criminal offense. He also suggested that the absence of official information from the state government has created uncertainty and speculation about the true reason for their continued custody.
The activist described the situation as a violation of due process and called on the Anambra State Government to provide clear information regarding the circumstances of the detention. He urged Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo to address the matter without delay and to ensure that the detainees are either formally charged or released immediately.
Supporters of Nwangwu and other community members have expressed similar concerns, noting that the state government has not issued a detailed explanation since the detention began. Legal observers say that holding individuals for an extended period without public charges raises constitutional and human rights questions.
As of the time of this report, the Anambra State Government has not released an official statement explaining the nature of the allegations or the current status of the detained practitioners.
